Presents
Antonio Bazzini
String Quintet in A Major
For 2 Violins, Viola and 2 Cellos
Antonio Bazzini (1818-1897) today is remembered as one of Italy's greatest violinists and the composer of the fiendishly difficult encore piece, Ronde des Lutins (Dance of the Goblins), however, in his time, Bazzini's chamber music and his operas were greatly esteemed. When Paganini, the foremost virtuoso of his time, heard the young Bazzini perform, he encouraged him to pursue a career as a concert violinist. This Bazzini did, concertizing throughout Europe for many years. At the very height of his fame, Bazzini gave up the career of a concert virtuoso to concentrate on composing, and in particular, trying to renew the Italian instrumental tradition and interest in classical music which by mid 19th century was already on the decline. For the next several decades he based himself in Florence and Milan where he not only taught and composed, but as a conductor, also introduced the masterpieces of the Austrian and German repertoire to Italian audiences. Although he wrote a number of successful operas and greatly influenced Puccini.
Bazzini's String Quintet in A Major dates from 1864 and as such is one of his first chamber music works. He entered in the 1865 chamber music competition held by the Milan Quartet Society and won first prize. Writing in his Chamber Music Handbook, the well-known chamber music scholar Wilhelm Altmann has this to say about Bazzini’s String Quintet in A Major:
‘Bazzini’s String Quintet was published in 1866. From it one can clearly hear that the composer not only knows how to write for string instruments but also that he able to produce a work which is grateful to play and a pleasure to hear. The Quintet will be especially welcomed by amateurs. The song-like main theme of the opening Allegro is both lovely and effective. The part-writing shows consdierable skill and there is a lilting coda. The title of the second movement, Adagio appassionato, describes the mood of the movement and the lively middle section provides an excellent contrast. A lively, rhythmically pronounced Scherzo comes next. The finale, Allegro, begins in a jovial mood. A second theme with its piquant rhythms follows and there is also an attractive lyrical subject as well.”
We are pleased to present this fine work which has been unavailable for more than a century. It is suitable for both amateurs and professionals alike.
Parts: $34.95
